A bit gutted

[TBK74]

Decided to start c25k a few weeks ago. I had some running gear from a bit I did a few years ago so had some decent Asics shoes. Anyway started the podcasts and absolutely loved it. Perfect pacing, a great plan. Did the first week no problem. Was feeling really good and the ripening was getting a bit easier.

A week ago, started week two and since then I've been absolutely crippled with pain in the same place on the top inside of each shin, about an inch or two below the right knee. Have been limping around work all week. Absolutely no way I could run. My leg would fall off!

I'm really sad because I was determined to get out running and friends and family who run say how much they love it. Not sure I'll be able to run if my shins/knees are this bad.

Anybody had a similar experience?

Kev

[Realfoodieclub Graduate]

I'm so sorry your having problems. We always have a saying on here if in doubt check it out with you gp. The only thing I would mention is do you know when you run or walk do you point your toes inwards? I'm not a doctor or physio but it could account for the pain on both inner shins. If its the case you might need some help loosening the muscles. I wouldn't give up yet. See how your feet are placed as you walk if they are straight you might be twisting them inwards only when you run. Slow down and try to see what is happening. Let us know how you get on.

[TBK74 in reply to Realfoodieclub]

Thank you for your advice. Much appreciated. I've checked my running and I'm an overpronator. I've bought some better shoes which hopefully should help. Going to buy compression socks too.

Really don't want to have to give up.

[runswithdogs Graduate]

How fast are your walk breaks? I get shin pains if I walk quickly. Slow plodding walk breaks might help.

[GoogleMe Graduate in reply to runswithdogs]

I very much agree with this. The reason I started C25K was that sustaining a brisk walk was too painful, so was not going to be a route to improving my fitness and losing weight. I find running a much looser action and, guess what after a few weeks, the shin pain that had plagued me for years was pretty much gone.

Sometimes a decent shoe is not the right one for you - I had gait analysis and a shoe fitted and what a disaster in practice. My knees knocked together and the pain was back.

I'd also suggest finding a forgiving surface if you possibly can and staying off roads and pavements.

Good luck!

[TBK74 in reply to runswithdogs]

Hi. It's a specific plan to start running so no chance of over-exertion. First week is 1min run then 90 sec walking briskly. One day gap between each run.

[Curlygurly2 Graduate]

Yes, I had the same sort of thing, it sounds like shin splints. RICE - Rest, Ice, Elevation Compression, and anti inflammatory gel like Ibuprofen. Don't run until the pain has gone (yes, I know you probably can't!) It's worth getting your shoes checked at a good sport shop, they may not be right for you...

[TBK74 in reply to Curlygurly2]

Hi. Thanks for your reply. It's appreciated. After one week of limping about, the pain has finally sups sided today. I am an overpronator so I've bought a good pair of Asics trainers and I'm thinking of buying compression socks for my shins. Not sure if I should also use a knee support. Really don't want to give up.

Have you used any of these?

[Curlygurly2 Graduate in reply to TBK74]

No, touch wood I've been ok since I got proper shoes. The pain really is awful isn't it, I couldn't bear the sheet to touch my leg in bed. Hope you feel better soon xx

[TBK74 in reply to Curlygurly2]

I've got new shoes which help with pronation so hopefully I'll be the same as yourself. I'm still not in a position to start again and it's very frustrating.

I hope you don't mind me asking, but how long did the pain last with you.

After just over a week, I'm still quite sore.

[Curlygurly2 Graduate in reply to TBK74]

About a fortnight or so, it was not completely gone when I got my new shoes, but pretty much xx

[TBK74 in reply to Curlygurly2]

I still might need to suffer for a little while yet then.

Thanks so much for your help. I really appreciate it.

[davelinks Graduate]

runnersworld.com/tag/shin-s...

[TBK74 in reply to davelinks]

Thanks Dave. This is really helpful and I think your diagnosis is spot on.

Thanks for taking the time to reply.